How to Replace a Lost or Stolen Car Title in West Virginia

It can be very frustrating to lose things, so what happens when that lost item is your car title? Maybe you don't remember losing it, maybe it was stolen. No matter how it managed to disappear, if you no longer have it you will want to look into a duplicate car title. A car title is your proof that you own your vehicle. This makes it possible to sell your vehicle, transfer ownership, and use it as collateral if needed.

In the state of West Virginia a duplicate car title can be issued if you have lost, damaged, destroyed, had it defaced, or stolen. The Division of Motor Vehicles of the West Virginia Department of Transportation takes care of the duplicate titles. The process can be done in person, or by mail. Here's a look at the steps involved.

In person

Begin by filling out the Affidavit of a Duplicate Title for a Vehicle or Watercraft (Form DMV-4-TR ). On this form you will need to specify why you need a duplicate title.

You must show your registration card and driver's license.

There is a fee of $10 for the duplicate title.

Take all the information to your nearest WV DMV office.

By mail

You will need to fill out that same form, and include a copy of your registration card and driver's license. Be sure to enclose the $10 fee.

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